Because of the unique position of your driveway apron, there are many things you need to pay attention to as a driveway owner. The design process, location, size, materials, and installation are all included and will determine how effective and efficient your driveway would be.
A driveway apron has many benefits. Aside from enhancing your driveway curb appeal, it prevents water damage to non-permeable driveways, holds up heavy weight, and also boosts the integrity of many driveways. There are numerous choices for your driveway aprons, including concrete, asphalt, gravel, stone slabs, and many others. Maintenance for the driveway apron includes seal coating, crack and pothole repairs. Routine maintenance will help prevent and protect your driveway apron and the entire driveway from falling apart.
You can choose various driveway paving materials for your driveway aprons that will create an excellent contrast. You can also make the apron from the same paving material as the rest of the driveway. Here is a simple guide to help you decide on the best driveway apron and how to install it.
What Is a Driveway Apron?
A driveway apron is the portion of the driveway close to the road. It is also known as an approach, and it’s usually made from the same paving material as the rest of the driveway. This section of the driveway is connected to the road to give vehicles easy access to your driveway. The connection to your driveway and the road has numerous purposes and has kept many homeowners and their vehicles safe.
What Is the Purpose of a Driveway Apron?
A driveway approach has many significant benefits and has helped preserve the life of different driveways.
Some of its many benefits include but are not limited to the following;
- The driveway apron gives a modern look to your homes or businesses.
- It enhances safety and provides a drainage system during storms and heavy floods.
- It provides a good transition between the driveway and the road.
- The apron approach can hold up heavy weight and traffic.
- The apron approach also provides a steady surface to walk and drive.
Types of Driveway Aprons
Your driveway can be much more than the conventional types you see in the movies or your neighborhood. You can create a breathtaking, relaxing, and livable space depending on the size of your driveway, the shape, design, material, and driveway apron you want. Sometimes you will want to spend more time on your driveway alone or with your loved ones. Below is a list of driveway apron types that will help you best enhance your property and allow your guest to drive in easily.
Asphalt
When it comes to affordability, asphalt is the best material compared to concrete. This paving material contains petroleum that allows for a level of flexibility.
Asphalt doesn’t crack easily because of its ability to adjust to extreme weather conditions and usage.
Asphalt apron comes in just one color and cannot be stamped. You can use a different paving material for your driveway and asphalt to pave your apron.
Concrete
It is one of the most used materials because of its durability, cost, and installation. Concrete aprons are easy to install. With routine cleaning, concrete can last over two decades. Concrete aprons also come in a variety of colors. You don’t have to stick to the same color throughout the entire area.
With concrete, you can choose an appealing color for your apron.
Cobblestone
For your driveway apron, you can use rounded lumps of large-sized stones. The cobblestone apron is durable and appears aesthetically appealing. This paving material comes fixed on a mesh for easy installation.
Gravel
To make an economic impact, you should go for an eco-friendly driveway. Loose stones or gravel allow water to pass freely, creating a drainage system for your driveway. A gravel apron is inexpensive and easy to maintain, but it has one major pitfall. Gravel spreads and gets scattered all over the road. However, if you can care for your gavel, you will enjoy an eco-friendly connection to the road.
Stone Pavers
Stone pavers are the best option if you intend to elevate the look of your home or business place. They are elegant with a wide variety. Stone pavers come in different shapes, styles, and sizes. You can choose the right pavers that best suit your driveway needs.
How To Lay a Concrete Driveway Apron
Installing a concrete apron takes time and energy. Also, you will need to buy or rent equipment to achieve a flawless installation. This guide will make your installation processes easy.
1. Measure and Mark the Area
Analyze, measure, and mark the area to be paved. You can use spray paint, nails, or string to outline the apron area.
2. Excavation
Excavate six inches of soil away and fill the area with two inches of crushed granite, gravel, or a mixture of both. This allows for the stabilization of the ground.
3. Compact or Level the Area
Compact the area or subgrade with a compactor and ensure that you level and smoothen all areas.
4. Place Steel Rebar
Carefully place steel rebar on the apron and set up forms around the area.
5. Deliver the Concrete
Pour 4000 PSI concrete into the area gently. With a shovel, move concrete up to the edges. Use a finishing tool to level and smoothen the concrete. Use a broom finish to create a texture over the apron. A broom finish will help to create a non-slip surface.
6. Allow the Concrete to Cure
Seal the concrete and allow the concrete to cure and dry for some time before you use your apron approach
How to Install a Cobblestone Driveway Apron
Cobblestone comes fixed on a mesh for easy installation. Once you determine the size of your driveway and the quantity of cobblestone you need, you can set out to install your cobblestone apron. This guide will help you DIY your cobblestone apron.
1. Dig Out The Area
Dig at least six inches of topsoil and lay the area with stone dust. There are other materials you can use to lay the area. However, stone dust is easily compacted and remains the best option.
2. Level and Compact
After compacting your stone dust, add leveling sand on top. Compact your sand carefully and ensure that all the area is leveled.
3. Lay Cobblestone
It’s time to start laying your cobblestone mesh. Begin from one side to another in rows. Some cobblestones on the side might need a little help to fit in. Make a mark on the cobblestone and use a chisel to shape it to a good size.
4. Wet The Area
After installing the cobblestone, wet the area with a hose and level the cobblestone. Ensure it’s well compacted into the bed you’ve created.
5. Grout The Joint
Grout your driveway apron and spread grout into the joint. Then brush off excess grout from the surface.
6. Allow To Dry
Allow your newly installed cobblestone apron to dry for at least 24-72 hours before you drive in.
How Much Does A Driveway Apron Cost?
Several factors will determine the cost of a driveway apron. These include the size, design, type of material, equipment needed, and location.
For an asphalt driveway apron, expect to spend an average of $3 to $6 per square foot. A concrete apron will cost an average of $3-$10 per square foot, and a cobblestone driveway apron will cost an average of $3-$10 per square foot for materials and installation.
Driveway Apron Ideas and Pictures
- Paver Mat Made Of Concrete Cobblestone: if you are looking for a durable and sustainable material for your driveway apron. Cobblestone has the strength to withstand heavy weight and traffic.
- Asphalt Driveway Apron: asphalt is a durable material that can withstand extreme weather conditions and remain intact for decades. It also adds a sophisticated look to your driveway.
- Driveway Apron: this beautiful driveway apron doesn’t just connect to the road but creates a system that will allow water to flow down effectively.
- Gravel Driveway Apron: this gravel extension will last the test of time and also provide a great drainage system.
- Concrete Apron: for your garages, driveways, or parking lot, you can install concrete and expect a lasting environment.
Conclusion
With a driveway apron, you have nearly unlimited possibilities. Explore different ideas until you are comfortable with your choice. When you decide to do it yourself, take time out to read the guide and understand the steps before you proceed. Remember that the stone can complement or contrast your driveway.